NEMANJA VIDIC is determined to hit the goal trail for Manchester United.

The tough-tackling Serb was a major factor in United’s Premier League title win last term, producing a string of outstanding defensive displays.

Vidic also chipped in with four goals, all headers, proving himself to be a major attacking force at set pieces.

And, while the 26-year-old is yet to open his account this season, he is keen to find the net again and ease some of the pressure on United’s struggling strikeforce.

"I plan to score lots of goals this year," he said.

"It doesn’t matter how I get them; off my head, my feet and even my stomach. I don’t mind as long as the ball goes in.

"I simply want to keep finding the goal and help the team to win more matches."

While Old Trafford is bound to get wrapped up in the emotion of United legend Roy Keane’s return when Sunderland head to the north-west on Saturday, the United camp are aware three points are a must if they are to keep tabs on early pacesetters Chelsea.

The Red Devils major problem is fairly easy to spot. Two goals in four games so far this term represents the worst return in the entire top flight as West Ham have scored an equal number of times but in one fewer game.

For a side who finished top of the scoring charts 12 months ago, it is an amazing statistic and one which Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced will soon change.

The long-term absence of Wayne Rooney and Louis Saha, who could figure against the Black Cats, are obvious drawbacks, as is a three-match ban which Cristiano Ronaldo will complete tomorrow.

But Vidic does not believe there is any need for major concern.

"There is no need to panic," Vidic said. "Yes. We have dropped points early but it is a long season and there are still a lot of matches to be played.

"Obviously, losing Cristiano (Ronaldo) and Wayne (Rooney) was not ideal but we are strong enough to cope.

"We won the league last season and strengthened our squad in the summer, so I believe this team will win more medals."

As well as Saha being on the verge of a comeback, Brazilian new-boy Anderson could also feature for the first time after overcoming a niggling hamstring complaint picked up during pre-season combat in Doncaster.

The potential availability of that duo is likely to mean there will be no late deadline-day arrivals at Old Trafford, even though the names of Dimitar Berbatov and Nicolas Anelka continue to be linked with a move to the champions.